Mountaineering backpack

Mountaineering backpacks: Choosing the right companion for your ascents

The choice of a mountaineering backpack is crucial to ensure comfort, safety and efficiency during your ascents. A good rucksack should be lightweight, robust and well-designed to carry all the gear you need, while allowing plenty of freedom of movement. Here's a guide to help you choose the right mountaineering backpack for your needs, whether for a day or a multi-day expedition.

Capacity and use: 30L, 40L and more

Rucksack capacity depends on the length of the ascent and the amount of equipment required. Here are some recommendations based on rucksack capacity:

• 30L mountaineering back pack: Ideal for day trips or technical ascents where lightness and mobility are a priority. A 30-liter bag is big enough to carry the essentials: rope, crampons, jacket, water, food and safety gear. It is often used for fast, lightweight mountaineering trips.

• 40L mountaineering back pack: Suitable for multi-day ascents or when you need to carry more gear. A 40-liter bag offers more capacity to add a light sleeping bag, a bivouac tent, and extra clothing. It's a good compromise between space and maneuverability for longer expeditions.

• Mountaineering rucksack > 40L: For extended expeditions and high-mountain ascents where autonomy is required, a rucksack larger than 40 liters is recommended. These bags can carry everything you need for several days, including full bivouac gear and provisions.

Features of mountaineering backpacks

When choosing a mountaineering backpack, it's important to consider several features that enhance functionality and comfort:

• Lightness and durability: The bag should be made of lightweight yet resistant materials, such as ripstop nylon, which offers good durability without weighing the bag down.

• Carrying system: A good carrying system with an internal frame or aluminum reinforcements offers better support and balanced weight distribution. Shoulder and hip straps should be padded and adjustable for optimum comfort.

• Accessories and storage: Gear loops for ice axes and crampons, compression straps, side pockets for water bottles, and zipped pockets for small items are important features. Some packs are also compatible with hydration systems.

• Access and opening: Mountaineering backpacks must allow quick and easy access to equipment. Zipped front or side openings and separate compartments for rope and safety gear are valuable assets.

Recommended brands: Innovation and reliability

Leading brands specializing in mountaineering offer high-quality backpacks designed to meet the demands of mountaineers. Here are a few well-known brands:

• Deuter: Known for its rugged, comfortable packs, Deuter offers models like the Guide 35+ and Gravity Motion 40, which are perfect for technical mountaineering.

• Osprey: Renowned for its ergonomic carrying systems, Osprey offers bags like the Mutant 38, designed specifically for climbers and mountaineers.

• Black Diamond: Specializing in mountain gear, Black Diamond offers bags like the lightweight and durable Speed 40, ideal for fast, technical ascents.

• Arcteryx: A benchmark brand for mountain clothing and equipment, Arcteryx offers bags like the Alpha AR 35, rugged and versatile, suitable for extreme conditions.

Choosing the right mountaineering backpack is essential to guarantee a safe and successful ascent. By taking into account the required capacity, technical features and reputable brands, you can find the backpack that will meet your specific needs. Whether you're planning a day trip or a multi-day expedition, a well-chosen bag will enable you to carry your gear efficiently and comfortably, helping you to focus on your goals in the mountains.